Mathematics

Overview

Why choose this course

The staff are at the forefront of their field, and offer support for innovative research courses in a lively, inspiring and intellectually stimulating environment. Our research cuts a broad swathe through both pure and applied areas of mathematics, and we’re unique in the strong emphasis we place on research at the interface between pure and applied mathematics.

As well as developing new cutting-edge mathematics, our research also involves innovative applications in areas such as data analytics, wave energy, drug development, ecology, biological systems, theoretical physics, climate change and meteorology, crime forecasting and prevention, and machine learning.

We work closely with other academics, industries and research groups, ranging from internal collaborations with the Surrey Sleep Centre, the 5G Innovation Centre, and the School of Veterinary Medicine to partnerships with other institutions from around the globe. Our national and international collaborators include Harvard, Princeton, MIT, Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, and the ETH Zurich as well as leading businesses such as AstraZenica, Offshore Wave Energy Limited, and government agencies such as the Animal and Plant Health Agency.

What you will study

The PhD in Mathematics at the University of Surrey will give you extensive training for a career as a professional mathematician, ready for a future in academia, industry, or government.

You’ll work closely with one or two supervisors, who you will meet on a frequent basis to discuss your research and your career development. They will oversee your progress and offer advice throughout your PhD studies. 

During your first few months of your PhD you’ll enrol and attend a series of induction events, and work with your supervisor to design a personal development plan which you’ll update throughout your PhD.

You’ll complete a number of taught modules, including assessments, to broaden your mathematical knowledge. Most of these will be completed in your first year, with some completed in your second year. These are a mix of MAGIC taught courses, courses from the London Taught Course Centre, courses from the Academy for PhD Training in Statistics or our own masters-level modules. You’ll also get training in department research seminars aimed at both staff and PhD students. On average, you’ll be attending approximately one or two research seminars a week.